Pretoria - The African National Congress (ANC) has encouraged all South Africans, the continent and the world to observe the National Day of Prayer and Reflection for the family of the late former President Nelson Mandela.
The national prayer day, which is set for today, forms part of the 10-day national mourning announced by President Jacob Zuma in honour of the iconic and revered international statesman.
The national officials of the ANC will observe this important day by attending religious services throughout the country.
ANC and government leaders both at national and provincial levels will also join members of the public at stadiums, halls, churches, temples and synagogues in observance of this day.
Members of the public, religious denominations and various formations in society are urged to come together in groups and individually to conduct prayers and spiritual reflections during this period of mourning.
“It is the unity of the South African people in their diversity which has sustained us as a nation to withstand even the most difficult of times.
“The teachings of our beloved former President have inspired us to unite, to be compassionate and to love one another.
“During this national day of prayer, let us hold hands and pray for the Mandela family, pray for one another and pray for the nation,” the ANC said in a statement.
The ANC has, in partnership with interfaith organisations, organised prayer events in all nine provinces. The programme of the national officials is as follows:
- President Jacob Zuma - Venue: Bryanston Methodist Church, Corner Grosvenor & William Nicol Roads, Sandton, Time: 10am;
- President Thabo Mbeki - Venue: Oxford Shul, Rosebank, Time: 6pm;
- Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa - Venue: Provincial ANC Interfaith Service, Standard Bank Arena, Time: 1pm;
- Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe, Venue: Grace Bible Church, Pimville, Soweto, Time: 9am;
- National Chairperson Baleka Mbete - Venue: Bethesda Methodist Church, Berea, Time: 9am;
- Secretary-General Gwede Mantashe - Venue: Oasis Church, Daveyton, Time: 9am; and
- Deputy Secretary-General Jessie Duarte - Venue: Bhuddist Service, SGI-SA National Centre, Rosebank, Time: 10am.
The National Executive Committee members of the ANC will also be attending religious services in various parts of the country. – SAnews.gov.za
